Andrea S. Francis, MS2 Student
Richard Wagner, MD
School of Medicine / Dermatology
Many homeless present to the St. Vincent’s House Clinic in Galveston with advanced skin cancers. While most people are able to shelter or use sun protective factor (SPF) products during peak sun exposure hours, these options are not available for the homeless. In order to reduce the risk of facial skin cancer in this population, UTMB students will distribute 100 hats with sun protective rims and neck coverings to the homeless. Students will also provide education about the dangers of sunlight exposure and the importance of seeking shade and wearing a hat to prevent skin cancer. Follow up will be conducted to evaluate hat use and identify barriers to implementation.